Pushing boundaries: How our Hackathon champions innovation and equity

Discover how AtkinsRéalis HackaFuture set a new standard for innovation and candidate experience

Innovation doesn’t happen in isolation; it thrives when passionate people with different perspectives come together to imagine what’s possible. This mindset sits at the heart of #HackaFuture, the groundbreaking AtkinsRéalis hackathon that took place in Manchester as part of the 2025 Digital Skills Festival. 

Designed to challenge convention and open doors for talent from every background, the event set out to reimagine what recruitment in the tech and clean energy sector could look like. 

What is #HackaFuture? A hackathon with a purpose

#HackaFuture wasn’t your typical tech event. It was an open invitation to dream bigger, think differently, and use digital innovation to drive meaningful change. 

This was an industry-first recruitment experience; the hackathon brought together 100 people in 20 diverse teams in Manchester to tackle real-world challenges facing our planet and its people, from accelerating clean energy to designing smarter, more sustainable infrastructure.

Rather than focusing on years of experience or traditional pathways into the industry, the event championed skills, creativity and mindset. 

Championing equity: Breaking barriers and opening doors

We set out to challenge the idea that only certain qualifications or backgrounds can lead to success in tech and engineering. #HackaFuture was designed to remove barriers, giving talented individuals from all walks of life the chance to show what they can do, not just what’s on their CV. 

From students taking their first steps in tech to career changers bringing fresh perspectives, the hackathon created a level playing field where creativity, problem-solving, and curiosity mattered most. By welcoming diverse skill sets, from software development and data science to gaming, robotics, and beyond, the event highlighted that innovation flourishes when everyone’s voice is heard.

Different perspectives drive better ideas. Participants discovered that their unique experiences and ways of thinking were exactly what the future of digital innovation needs. 

Innovation in action: Tech shaping a cleaner future

At #HackaFuture, creativity met cutting-edge technology. Teams used AI, robotics, augmented reality, gaming engines, and drones to design solutions tackling real-world challenges in clean energy and sustainable infrastructure.

The energy in the room was electric, with diverse teams collaborating, learning from each other, and pushing the boundaries of what technology can achieve.

As Sam Stephens, Head of Digital for AtkinsRéalis’ nuclear business, said: “Our digital teams work in dynamic environments, and we’re looking for a mix of skills and backgrounds to develop technology solutions that power a clean energy future.” At #HackaFuture, that vision came to life, proving that the future of innovation is fueled by curiosity, collaboration, and courage.

Why events like this matter: Shaping the future of clean energy

The challenges we face in clean energy and sustainable infrastructure demand fresh ideas, diverse perspectives, and bold solutions. #HackaFuture showed that the next generation of innovators isn’t defined by degrees or titles, it’s defined by curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to push boundaries. 

By blending technology, collaboration, and equity, events like this accelerate innovation while nurturing the talent that will power a sustainable future. They also demonstrate the growing potential of tech careers in Manchester and beyond, highlighting the city as a hub for forward-thinking digital talent.

Beyond competition: Real jobs, real impact

#HackaFuture wasn’t just a weekend of ideas; it was a launchpad for real careers. The high quality thinking and solution-oriented focus of the hackers meant we were able to double our goal, and offered two teams, 10 people, permanent roles as Digital & Technology Specialists at AtkinsRéalis’ Manchester office, complete with competitive salaries, generous starting bonuses, and mentorship from senior digital leaders.

Alongside their new positions, the winners received investment to continue developing their solutions, supported by the company’s Global Technology Center and technology partners. 

#HackaFuture has already received awards and recognition for its innovative approach to recruitment and digital skills development, highlighting the impact it has had on both participants and the broader tech community. 

#HackaFuture was more than a hackathon; it was a movement. Explore digital and technology careers at AtkinsRéalis and join the next generation of innovators shaping our world.